On a chilly November evening in 2018, the roar of engines echoed one last time at Arena Essex Raceway. This wasn’t just another race day. This was Firecracker XXVII, the final curtain call for a beloved speedway and stock car racing legend. Arena Essex Raceway, nestled near Purfleet, Essex, had been a thrilling fixture since its grand opening in 1978. Its quarter-mile oval track, initially enclosed by a precarious post-and-wire fence, had witnessed countless spectacular crashes and breathtaking victories. The Lakeside Shopping Centre, a modern behemoth, now loomed large near the raceway, a stark contrast to the gritty charm of the track.
Arena Essex Raceway was the brainchild of Chick Woodroffe, a local businessman and racing driver. He envisioned a racing haven amidst the remains of an old cement works overspill site. The first stock car race, held on May 1, 1978, was unfortunately marred by a downpour. Over the years, the track evolved. The flimsy fence, notorious for contributing to some colossal crashes, was eventually replaced with a sturdier Armco barrier and catch fencing.
Every September, Arena Essex Raceway hosted the prestigious National World Final Championship. This event, spanning over 40 years, saw fierce competition among over 40 cars. The winner from the previous year always started in last place, adding an extra layer of drama to the race. Banger racing was a staple at Arena Essex, with Sunday afternoons and Bank Holiday Mondays dedicated to various disciplines. From Rookie Bangers to Big Van Bangers and even Caravan Destruction Derbies, there was something for every adrenaline junkie. One particularly memorable vehicle was a 1928 Dodge Standard Six, one of the oldest bangers ever raced, which later found a second life in a movie about damaged cars.
Firecracker, established in 1991, held a special place in the hearts of Arena Essex fans. This banger racing extravaganza stood out for its unique car rulings, which outlawed common models like the Ford Granada. This paved the way for a dazzling array of rare classics and larger vehicles that wouldn’t typically be seen in regular banger events. The night always culminated in a breathtaking firework display, courtesy of the local Shellshock Fireworks company.
Speedway racing also found a home at Arena Essex, beginning in 1984 with the Arena-Essex Hammers, later renamed the Lakeside Hammers. The team raced on Friday evenings, competing in the SGB Championship. They even achieved a remarkable victory in the Elite League Knockout Cup in 2009. Sadly, after 41 years of thrills and spills, Arena Essex Raceway closed its gates in November 2018. An £80 million offer from housing developers sealed the track’s fate. Demolition began in 2020. While the physical structure is gone, the memories and legacy of Arena Essex Raceway will continue to live on in the hearts of racing enthusiasts. Firecracker XXVII, with its 230 competing cars and spectacular fireworks display, served as a poignant farewell to this iconic venue. The roar of the engines may be silenced, but the echoes of cheering crowds and the thrill of the race will never be forgotten.